Product Design and R&D Engineer

GWS Tool Group; Vista (CA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

GWS Tool Group in California seeks a Product Design and R&D Engineer to drive research, design, testing, and commercialization of cutting tool solutions across production, with a focus on advanced materials and digital tooling.

You will collaborate with Engineering, Manufacturing, Quality, and external partners to bring innovative products to market, manage development from concept to production, and apply data-driven analysis to improve performance, cost, and manufacturability.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in mechanical or manufacturing engineering.
• 5+ years in product development or R&D in cutting tools.
• Advanced knowledge of metal cutting processes.
• CAD/CAM proficiency with listed tools.

Responsibilities

• Lead development of cutting tool products from concept through commercialization.
• Research emerging technologies, materials, coatings, and manufacturing methods.
• Design and optimize various cutting tools (solid carbide, carbide-tipped, ceramic, PCD, CBN).
• Develop and validate product performance via lab and production testing.
• Create test plans, analyze results, and provide data-driven recommendations.
• Develop digital engineering tools, databases, software apps, and AI-driven solutions.
• Collaborate with manufacturing to transition new products to production.

Skills

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Project management

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Bachelors in Mechanical

Tools

AutoCAD

SolidWorks

Siemens NX

Mastercam

Job description

Job Title: Product Design and R&D Engineer

Department: Corporate

Reports to: Director of Engineering

Classification: Exempt

Location: Open to all GWS production locations

Travel: Yes

Job Summary: The Product Development & R&D Engineer is responsible for the research, design, development, testing, and commercialization of innovative cutting tool solutions and manufacturing technologies. This role drives product development from concept through production, while evaluating emerging technologies, digital tools, advanced materials, and manufacturing processes that support the company's strategic growth objectives. The engineer works closely with Engineering, Business Development, Manufacturing, Quality, Sales, and external technology partners to bring innovative products and capabilities to market.

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Lead the development of cutting tool products from concept through commercialization
• Research and evaluate emerging technologies, materials, coatings, manufacturing methods, and industry trends
• Design and optimize solid carbide, carbide-tipped, ceramic, PCD, CBN and specialty cutting tools
• Develop and validate product performance through laboratory and production testing
• Create test plans, analyze results, and provide data-driven recommendations
• Investigate manufacturing technologies including coatings, grades, additive manufacturing, and digital solutions
• Develop and implement digital engineering tools, databases, software applications, and AI-driven solutions to improve efficiency and innovation
• Collaborate with manufacturing teams to ensure successful transition of new products into production
• Conduct competitive benchmarking and product performance studies.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives focused on product performance, quality, cost, and manufacturability
• Maintain awareness of market trends, customer requirements, and industry advancements
• Prepare technical reports, presentations, specifications, and product documentation
• Support end-user activities at customers and machine tool builders
• Work with design team to optimize processes and procedures

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as mechanical or manufacturing engineering
• Proven experience (5 years) in product development, R&D, manufacturing, or cutting tool design
• Advanced application knowledge and experience in metal cutting
• Desired CAD/CAM- AutoCAD, SolidWorks, Siemens NX and/or Mastercam
• Analytical and problem-solving skills of basic manufacturing processes
• Strong organizational and project management skills with the ability to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate with diverse teams and stakeholders

Physical Requirements:

• Light work that includes moving objects up to 20 pounds at a time
• Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer
• Ability to drive or fly to all facilities

Other Information

• Travel is required (desired 30%), domestic and international

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, age, genetic information, or any other factors prohibited by law.